Since software programs have come to dominate offices and studios, the pencil has become a symbol for creative freedom, stimulating some of the world's most creative minds. This thought-provoking book presents close-up pictures of pencils used by artists, designers, writers, architects, and musicians. Stephen Fry's pencil looks as dry as his wit, Dave Eggers somehow writes with a pencil whose tip looks like a primitive pyramid, and Cindy Sherman uses one that looks a bit like lipstick. Also included are pencil drawings and texts by Nick Park, William Boyd, Ian Callum, and more.